Homer, The Iliad Browse All Authors Top 4 quotes by Homer, The Iliad A generation of men is like a generation of leaves; the wind scatters some leaves upon the ground, while others the burgeoning wood brings forth - and the season of spring comes on. So of men one generation springs forth and another ceases. Homer, The Iliad Even when someone battles hard, there is an equal portion for one who lingers behind, and in the same honor are held both the coward and the brave man; the idle man and he who has done much meet death alike. Homer, The Iliad The outcome of the war is in our hands; the outcome of words is in the council. Homer, The Iliad Thus have the gods spun the thread for wretched mortals: that they live in grief while they themselves are without cares; for two jars stand on the floor of Zeus of the gifts which he gives, one of evils and another of blessings. Homer, The Iliad